Free accredited first aid training to be rolled out across the region

• Council has partnered with local organisation Gateway To Training to deliver free accredited first aid courses in Texas, Inglewood, Goondiwindi and Talwood.
• The courses will occur from January to April and are available to all residents of the Goondiwindi region.
• Residents are encouraged to engage with this opportunity to gain the skills required to effectively respond and support those around them in the event of an emergency.

In a concerted effort to further enhance disaster and emergency preparedness among its residents, Goondiwindi Regional Council has partnered with local organisation Gateway To Training to deliver free accredited first aid training at key locations across the region. The initiative is part of Council’s ongoing disaster preparedness activities aimed at equipping residents with essential skills, resources and confidence to navigate times of disaster and emergency effectively.

The first aid courses, scheduled from January to April in 2024, aim to empower individuals with life-saving capabilities. Participants will gain important knowledge to provide vital first aid and life support, manage emergencies effectively, and coordinate with other first responders until professional help arrives.

Mayor of Goondiwindi Regional Council, the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, emphasises the importance of taking advantage of this opportunity while it is available.  

“This is a great opportunity for residents in our smaller communities like Talwood, who do not always have ready access to accredited training like this, or the luxury of quick response times  to emergency situations.

I encourage everyone who can attend these training sessions to do so – you never know when you may need these skills, it may just save a life.”

The free first aid accreditation initiative complements Council’s recent Bush Kids First Aid program, which saw 120 of the region’s youngest residents learn basic first aid skills in four workshops across the region.

Councillor Phil O’Shea, portfolio holder for community development and health, explained that the free first aid accreditation is a major component in building a community that is prepared for emergencies.

“This program, in combination with the success of the Bush Kids First Aid program and our planned Rural and Remote First Aid courses for early in the new year, all work towards building a skilled and knowledgeable community that can support each other during times of need,” he said.

Training dates and venues are:

• Texas Bowls Club, January 23 2024
• Inglewood Bowls Club, 28 February 2024
• Gateway To Training - Goondiwindi, 29 February 2024
• Talwood Hotel, 13 April 2024

Each training session will start at 8am and conclude at 2pm, with morning tea and lunch provided.

Those interested in registering for these courses can do so by visiting the Gateway to Training website (www.gttc.com.au) or emailing info@gttc.com.au.